Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or someone who just wants to survive a flat-pack furniture marathon without developing a blister, the Aldi Ferrex 4V Cordless Screwdriver (Model SO19 item no. 850938) is a middle-aisle legend or just another “Aldi Find” that will end up at the back of a junk drawer? Let’s break it down.
The Specs: What’s Under the Hood?
Don’t let the small size fool you; for its weight class, the SO19 packs a punch. It’s designed for light-to-medium tasks around the house.
- Power: 4V Lithium-Ion battery (2.0Ah capacity).
- Torque: Adjustable Maximum 5Nm (plenty for hinges, toys, and cabinets).
- Speed: Approx. 230rpm
- The “Pivot” Feature: The handle rotates 180°, switching from a “pistol grip” to a “straight-line” driver for tight corners.
- Charging: Features USB-C charging, making it easy to charge..
Why It’s a Middle-Aisle Favorite
1. The Pivot Handle
This is the SO19’s “party trick.” By twisting the handle, you can turn the tool into a long baton. This is a lifesaver when you’re trying to reach a screw inside a narrow kitchen cupboard or behind a radiator where a traditional drill simply won’t fit.
2. Built-in LED Worklight
It features a small LED that triggers when you pull the start button. It’s not a searchlight, but it’s exactly what you need when you’re squinting into the dark recesses of a wardrobe.
3. LED Torch
On the bottom is a 3 light LED, Just press and have a reasonably powerful touch
4. The Accessory Kit
Aldi usually bundles this with a 26 piece bit set. You get your standard Phillips, Flathead, and Hex bits, meaning you can go from unboxing to building in about thirty seconds.
The Reality Check: Who Is This For?
It is important to manage expectations. This is a power screwdriver, not an impact driver.
Best For:
- Assembling IKEA/flat-pack furniture.
- Changing light switch plates or battery covers on toys.
- Light DIY where you’re screwing into pre-drilled holes or soft wood.
- Driving screws direct into soft wood.
Not For:
- Driving 4-inch screws into solid oak sleepers.
- Drilling holes into masonry or concrete.
- Heavy-duty construction.
The Verdict: Buy or Pass?
If you see the Ferrex 4V SO19 in the middle aisle for its usual £12–£15 price tag, it is an absolute Buy.
I brought this a few months ago when was a special buy, but noticed last week back on my local Aldi shelves, so not sure if going to be an ongoing item or just getting rid of stock, but if you can find one it’s great value, also about a month ago Lidl had basically the same design in under their parkside brand, so if can’t find the Aldi one check out Lidl
It’s the perfect “first tool” for a new homeowner or a reliable backup to keep in the kitchen drawer so you don’t have to lug your heavy 24V drill out of the garage for a two-minute job. It’s ergonomic, surprisingly punchy, and the battery holds its charge well even when left sitting for a few months.
Pro Tip: Your SO19 comes with a USB charging cable but no “brick,” just use your standard 5V phone charger—it works perfectly.
Would you like me to compare the Ferrex 4V to its main rival, the Parkside 4V from Lidl?